SANTA BARBARA, CA - The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) is starting its new fiscal year off right! Not only did the association host its 83rd Annual Membership Meeting in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, but the CFFA also elected its 2019/20 fiscal year Board of Directors and Chairman. Giumarra Vineyards’ own Randy Giumarra was elected Chairman.
The CFFA’s Board is made up of 44 men and women working in operations across California. Each of the Board’s members are nominated to serve a one-year period and are selected by a committee of past Board Chairs. In addition to Randy Giumarra, the following officers were elected to serve on this year’s Board:
- First Vice Chair: Kevin Herman (The Specialty Crop Company) - Madera-based fresh fig, pomegranate, and persimmon shipper
- Second Vice Chair: Wayde Kirschenman (Kirschenman Enterprises) – Kern County-based diversified farming operation
- Secretary/Treasurer: Louis Pandol (Pandol Bros., Inc.) - Delano-based fresh grape shipper
The CFFA also honored Kent Stephens, CFO of Marko Zaninovich, Inc., with the prestigious Mentor’s Award. The Mentor’s Award has recognized individuals who have demonstrated a dedication to the fresh grape, berry, and tree fruit communities through their leadership in the industry since 1966 when the first award was granted to Jasmine Vineyards’ Martin Zaninovich. The association’s mentors’ committee picks a recipient each year and this year, Stephens, through his work in both the table grape industry and water advocacy, was chosen for his positive impact on California agriculture over the course of his forty year career, according to a press release.
Before this year’s meeting kicked off, Ruben Navarrette and John Manzella took to the association’s stage as the Annual Industry Workshop’s keynote speakers. The two spoke on our industry’s pressing issues, including immigration, trade wars, and other issues impacting the future of California ag.
Congratulations to Randy Giumarra and the CFFA on another year of California produce excellence!
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